Depth of anesthesia monitoring in Norway-A web-based survey.

BACKGROUND: The bispectral index (BIS) monitor is the most frequently used electroencephalogram (EEG)-based depth of anesthesia (DoA) technology in Norwegian hospitals. However, there is limited knowledge regarding the extent and clinical impact of its use and how anesthesiologists and nurse anesthetists use the information provided by the DoA monitors in their clinical practice. METHODS: This cross-sectional survey on the use of DoA monitors in Norway used a web-based questionnaire distributed to anesthesia personnel in all hospitals in Norway. Participation was voluntary and anonymized, and the web form could not track IP sources or respondents' locations. RESULTS: Three hundred and ninety-one nurse anesthetists (n = 324) and anesthesiologists (n = 67) responded. Among the EEG-based DoA monitoring tools, BIS was most often used to observe and assess patients' DoA (98%). Raw EEG waveform analysis (10%), EEG-spectrogram (9%), and suppression rate (10%) were seldom used. Twenty-seven percent of the anesthesia personnel were able to recognize a burst suppression pattern on EEG and its significance. Fifty-eight percent of the respondents considered clinical observations more reliable than BIS. Almost all respondents reported adjusting anesthetic dosage based on the BIS index values (80%). However, the anesthetic dose was more often increased (90%) because of high BIS index values than lowered (55%) because of low BIS index values. CONCLUSION: Despite our respondents' extensive use of DoA monitoring, the anesthesia personnel in our survey did not use all the information and the potential to guide the titration of anesthetics the DoA monitors provide. Thus, anesthesia personnel could generally benefit from increased knowledge of how EEG-based DoA monitoring can be used to assess and determine individual patients' need for anesthetic medication.

The 2024 revision of the Norwegian standard for the safe practice of anaesthesia.

The Norwegian standard for the safe practice of anaesthesia was first published in 1991, and revised in 1994, 1998, 2005, 2010 and 2016 respectively. The 1998 version was published in English for the first time in Acta Anaesthesiologica Scandinavica in 2002. It must be noted that this is a national standard, reflecting the specific opportunities and challenges in a Norwegian setting, which may be different from other countries in some respects. A feature of the Norwegian healthcare system is the availability, on a national basis, of specifically highly trained and qualified nurse anaesthetists. Another feature is the geography, with parts of the population living in remote areas. These may be served by small, local emergency hospitals. Emergency transport of patients to larger hospitals is not always achievable when weather conditions are rough. These features and challenges were considered important when designing a balanced and consensus-based national standard for the safe practice of anaesthesia, across Norwegian clinical settings. In this article, we present the 2024 revision of the document. This article presents a direct translation of the complete document from the Norwegian original.

Evaluation of the Erector spinae plane block for postoperative analgesia in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair: a randomized placebo controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: The Erector spinae plane block (ESPB) reduces postoperative pain after several types of abdominal laparoscopic surgeries. There is sparse data on the effect of ESPB in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. The purpose of this study was to test the postoperative analgesic efficacy of an ESPB for this procedure. METHODS: In this prospective, double-blind, randomized controlled study, adult patients undergoing laparoscopic ventral hernia repair were randomly assigned to either bilateral preoperative ESPB with catheters at the level of Th7 (2 × 30 ml of either 2.5 mg/ml ropivacaine or saline), with postoperative catheter top ups every 6 h for 24 h. The primary outcome was rescue opioid consumption during the first hour postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were total opioid consumption at 4 h and 24 h, pain scores, nausea, sedation, as well as Quality of Recovery 15 (QoR-15) and the EuroQol-5 Dimensions (EQ-5D-5L) during the first week. RESULTS: In total, 64 patients were included in the primary outcome measure. There was no significant difference in rescue opioid consumption (oral morphine equivalents (OME)) at one hour postoperatively, with the ESPB group 26.9 ± 17.1 mg versus 32.4 ± 24.3 mg (mean ± SD) in the placebo group (p= 0.27). There were no significant differences concerning the secondary outcomes during the seven-day observation period. Seven patients received a rescue block postoperatively, providing analgesia in five patients. CONCLUSION: We found no difference in measured outcomes between ESPB and placebo in laparoscopic ventral hernia repair. Future studies may evaluate whether a block performed using higher concentration and/or at a different thoracic level provides more analgesic efficacy. TRIAL REGISTRATION: NCT04438369 ; 18/06/2020. .

Psychometric properties and criterion related validity of the Norwegian version of hospital survey on patient safety culture 2.0.

BACKGROUND: Several studies have been conducted with the 1.0 version of the Hospital Survey on Patient Safety Culture (HSOPSC) in Norway and globally. The 2.0 version has not been translated and tested in Norwegian hospital settings. This study aims to 1) assess the psychometrics of the Norwegian version (N-HSOPSC 2.0), and 2) assess the criterion validity of the N-HSOPSC 2.0, adding two more outcomes, namely 'pleasure of work' and 'turnover intention'. METHODS: The HSOPSC 2.0 was translated using a sequential translation process. A convenience sample was used, inviting hospital staff from two hospitals (N = 1002) to participate in a cross-sectional questionnaire study. Data were analyzed using Mplus. The construct validity was tested with confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). Convergent validity was tested using Average Variance Explained (AVE), and internal consistency was tested with composite reliability (CR) and Cronbach's alpha. Criterion related validity was tested with multiple linear regression. RESULTS: The overall statistical results using the N-HSOPSC 2.0 indicate that the model fit based on CFA was acceptable. Five of the N-HSOPSC 2.0 dimensions had AVE scores below the 0.5 criterium. The CR criterium was meet on all dimensions except Teamwork (0.61). However, Teamwork was one of the most important and significant predictors of the outcomes. Regression models explained most variance related to patient safety rating (adjusted R2 = 0.38), followed by 'turnover intention' (adjusted R2 = 0.22), 'pleasure at work' (adjusted R2 = 0.14), and lastly, 'number of reported events' (adjusted R2=0.06). CONCLUSION: The N-HSOPSC 2.0 had acceptable construct validity and internal consistency when translated to Norwegian and tested among Norwegian staff in two hospitals. Hence, the instrument is appropriate for use in Norwegian hospital settings. The ten dimensions predicted most variance related to 'overall patient safety', and less related to 'number of reported events'. In addition, the safety culture dimensions predicted 'pleasure at work' and 'turnover intention', which is not part of the original instrument.

Patient experiences and clinical outcomes of admissions to municipal acute wards versus a hospital: a multicentre randomised controlled trial in Norway.

BACKGROUND: In Norway, municipal acute wards (MAWs) were implemented as alternatives to hospitalisation. Evaluations of the quality of MAW services are lacking. The primary objective of this study was to compare patient experiences after admission to a MAW versus to a hospital. The secondary objective was to compare 'readmissions', 'length of stay', 'self-assessed health-related quality of life' as measured by the EuroQol 5 items 5 level (EQ-5D-5L) index, and 'health status' measured by the RAND-12, in patients admitted to a MAW versus a hospital. METHODS: A multicentre randomised controlled trial (RCT), randomising patients to either MAW or hospital. RESULTS: In total, 164 patients were enrolled in the study; 115 were randomised to MAW and 49 to hospital. There were no significant differences between the MAW and hospital groups regarding patient experience, which was rated positively in both groups. Patients in the MAW group reported significantly better physical health status as measured by the RAND-12 four to six weeks after admittance than those randomised to hospital (physical component summary score, 31.7 versus 27.1, p = 0.04). The change in EQ-5D index score from baseline to four to six weeks after admittance was significantly greater among patients randomised to MAWs versus hospitals (0.20 versus 0.02, p = 0.03). There were no other significant differences between the MAW and hospital groups. CONCLUSIONS: In this study, patient experiences and readmissions were similar, whether patients were admitted to a MAW or a hospital. The significant differences in health status and quality of life favouring the MAWs suggest that these healthcare services may be better for elderly patients. However, unfortunately we did not reach the planned sample size due to challenges in the data collection posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.

Municipal acute wards have been implemented in Norway as alternatives to hospitalisation. However, the quality of these wards remains unexplored. Results in this study indicates thatpatient experiences after stays in municipal acute wards are equally positive to experiences after stays in hospitalthere are no significant differences in length-of-stay, readmission rates or mortality between municipal acute wards and hospitalpatients have slightly more positive self-rated health and health status 4­6 weeks after staying in a municipal acute ward.

How do patients experience and use home blood pressure monitoring? A qualitative analysis with UTAUT 2.

Background: Hypertension is an important cardiovascular risk factor with potentially harmful consequences. Home blood pressure monitoring is a promising method for following the effect of hypertension treatment. The use of technology-enabled care and increased patient involvement might contribute to more effective treatment methods. However, more knowledge is needed to explain the motivations and consequences of patients engaging in what has been called 'do-it-yourself healthcare'. Aim: This study aimed to investigate patients' experiences of home blood pressure monitoring through the theoretical frame of the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology (UTAUT 2). Methods: The study had a qualitative design, with focus group interviews using the web-based platform Zoom. The data were analysed using qualitative deductive content analysis, inspired by Graneheim and Lundman. Results: The results are presented using the seven theoretical constructs of UTAUT 2: Performance Expectancy, Effort Expectancy, Social Influence, Facilitating Conditions, Hedonistic Motivation, Price Value and Habit. We found one overarching theme ‒ 'It's all about the feeling of security'. The patients were influenced by relatives or healthcare personnel and experienced the home monitoring process as being easy to conduct. The patients emphasised that the quality of the blood pressure monitor was more important than the price. Patients reported home monitoring of blood pressure as a feasible method to follow-up care of their hypertension. Discussion: This study indicates that among motivated patients, home blood pressure measurement entails minimal effort, increases security, and leads to better communication about blood pressure between healthcare personnel and patients.

Self-monitoring of hypertension is an increasingly common method and may increase measurement accuracy and patient involvement.Through the theoretical lens of the UTAUT2, home blood pressure monitoring seems to increase patients´ feeling of security.The respondents did not report negative experiences and might have been more prone to use technology-enabled care.Home blood pressure monitoring seems to be easily adopted by motivated patients with an interest in self-monitoring their disease.

Positioning the surgical patient - roles, responsibilities and challenges. A qualitative study.

AIMS: The aim was to explore how representatives from the different professions in the surgical team experience roles, responsibilities and challenges in positioning the surgical patient. BACKGROUND: Appropriate patient positioning on the operating table during surgery is vital for optimal anatomical exposure, access to essential equipment, patient comfort and to minimize the risk of injuries. Patient positioning has been described as a shared responsibility of the entire surgical team. The research on roles and responsibilities in patient positioning during surgery is sparse. DESIGN: The study had a qualitative design, including 16 individual, semi-structured interviews, conducted in November and December 2023. METHODS: Participants included surgeons (n = 4), anaesthetists (n = 4), operating room nurses (n = 4) and nurse anaesthetists (n = 4) in a hospital in Southeastern Norway. The data were analysed using Braun and Clarke's six-step Reflexive Thematic Analysis. RESULTS: Three main themes with subthemes were identified, namely (1) A teamwork approach, with subthemes (a) facilitating surgery and (b) health professionals' roles and responsibilities. (2) A patient safety issue, with subthemes (a) risk patients and (b) procedural challenges. (3) Absence of a systematic approach, with subthemes (a) various approach to second time-out and (b) documentation and feedback issues. CONCLUSION: Appropriate and safe positioning during surgery is a common responsibility of all members of the surgical team. Despite the common assumption that surgeons hold the primary responsibility, the operating room nurses seemed to hold the hands-on responsibility. Different health professionals emphasized different risk patients, risk procedures and perceived challenges. This suggests a connection between the specific focus of distinct professional domains, their tasks and expertise within the surgical context. IMPACT: There is a lack of clear guidelines outlining roles and the distribution of responsibility in patient positioning, which may be a safety concern. A need for reviewing responsibilities and defining roles is identified. Systematic follow-up of documentation of post-operative observation and documentation of skin status and the "second time-out" procedure is crucial to establish measures rooted in guidelines supported by both professional and administrative management. This dual commitment may ensure a comprehensive strategy for systematic follow-up, fostering a culture of continuous improvement. PATIENT CONTRIBUTION: Not applicable.

Prerequisites for entry to advanced nurse practitioner studies- a qualitative study of Norwegian nurse anesthetist students' experiences.

BACKGROUND: Nurse anesthesia is acknowledged as advanced practice nursing, and requires independency in patient monitoring and clinical decision-making. In Norway, 2022, a prerequisite to nurse anesthesia education programs of at least two years of clinical nursing experience prior to entry, was removed. The consequences of removing the prerequisite of clinical nursing experience prior to entering the nurse anesthetist education program on academic progression or on students' qualifications after completion of the program remain unexplored. Hence, the purpose of the current study was to explore nurse anesthetist students' experiences of the impact their previous clinical nursing experience had on their academic progression. METHODS: A qualitative design with semi-structured individual interviews was used. The sample consisted of 12 nurse anesthetist students at the end of the education program. The data were analyzed using thematic analysis in-line with recommendations from Braun & Clarke. RESULTS: Two main themes with in total six subthemes were identified, namely 1) Experience develops non-technical skills, with subthemes (a) feeling secure in task management, (b) recognizing different situations, (c) understanding my role in teamwork, and 2) Integration of non-technical and technical skills, with subthemes (a) possessing procedural competence, (b) taking responsibility in medication administration, and (c) including a patient-centred approach. Previous clinical experience as a nurse prior to entry to a NA education program had provided a basis of non-technical and technical competencies, that supported further learning and development of advanced level competencies that are needed for NAs. CONCLUSION: Non-technical and technical nursing competence represented a solid base for achievement of anesthesia competence within the same areas, also ensuring patient-centred practice. Hence, the change in prerequisites to the NA education program must be followed by evaluations of consequences on students' academic progress and competence at the end of the program, as well as a possible increased need for supervision throughout.

Patient-Centerdness in the Perioperative Period-A Rapid Review of Current Research.

PURPOSE: The indication of surgery is a critical moment in a person's life implying different needs, feelings, or fears. The aim of the current literature review was to elucidate the prevailing utilization of the concepts 'patient-centerdness' and 'person-centerdness' within the perioperative period. DESIGN: A rapid review design. METHODS: Literature searches were conducted in the databases PubMed, Scopus (Elsevier), American Psychological Association PsychInfo (Ovid), Embase (Ovid), CINAHL (Ovid), and Cochrane Library in December 2022. Rayyan software was used to assess the articles. Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal tools were used to evaluate the quality of the included articles. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes across the articles. FINDINGS: The electronic database searches identified 1,967 articles. A total of 12 articles were assessed in full text against the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and finally, a total of seven articles were included. The articles originated from six countries, employed disparate methodological approaches, and featured a heterogeneous array of participants representing various health care settings. Patient-centerdness held the mantle as the most prominently used concept across the seven articles, whereas person-centerdness emerged as the least frequently explored concept. One theme was identified across the articles; Preparedness. This was related to shared decision-making and information pre, peri- and postoperative. CONCLUSIONS: This rapid review suggests that patient preparedness, particularly through shared decision-making and providing information, is a recurring theme in the limited studies on patient- or person-centerdness in the perioperative context. The fact that only one single study focuses on person-centered care underscores the pressing need for a comprehensive re-evaluation of modern perioperative care.

Efficacy of a TAP block versus an anterior QLB for laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair: A randomised controlled trial.

BACKGROUND: Both the transversus abdominis plane (TAP) block and the anterior quadratus lumborum block (QLB) have been shown effective in reducing postoperative pain after laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair. Our hypothesis was that there is no difference in analgesic effect between the two blocks for this procedure. METHODS: In this prospective, double-blind, randomised controlled study, 60 adult patients undergoing laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair were equally randomly assigned to either a preoperative TAP block or an anterior QLB. The primary outcome was oral morphine equivalent (OME) consumption at 4 h postoperatively. Secondary outcomes were OME consumption at 24, 48 h and 7 days, pain scores at rest and when coughing, nausea, and level of sedation measured at 1, 2, 3, 24, and 48 h and 7 days postoperatively. RESULTS: Fifty-three patients completed the study. There was no significant difference in OME consumption at 4 h postoperatively, TAP group (10.3 ± 7.85 mg) (mean ± SD) versus the anterior QLB group (10.9 ± 10.85 mg) (p = .713). The pain scores were similar at rest and when coughing during the 7 day observation period, as were the level of sedation and incidence of nausea. There were no cases of serious side-effects or muscle weakness of the thigh on the same side as the block. CONCLUSION: There is no difference in OME consumption, pain, nausea or sedation between the TAP and the anterior QLB. Thus, the choice between the two blocks in a clinical setting of laparoscopic inguinal hernia repair should be based on other aspects, such as skills, practicalities, and potential risks.

When disaster strikes: staff recall and the use of staff recall systems during mass patient influx at Norwegian emergency primary health care centers - a cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND: In Norway, planning for disasters has been specifically emphasized since the incidents on July 22nd, 2011. Every municipality is now legislated to have a contingency plan that includes plans for staff recall during situations with mass influx of patients. Whether the primary health care services in Norway are prepared for mass influx of patients remains unclear. AIMS OF THE STUDY: The aims of this study were (1) to assess the experiences of head doctors at emergency primary health care centers (EPHCC) in Norway with mass influx of patients, (2) to explore mass influx and staff recall procedures in use, (3) to assess head doctors' experiences with staff recall systems, and (4) to assess their perspective on automatized staff recall systems. We also wanted to assess whether there were differences between small and large EPHCCs regarding whether they had plans in place. METHODS: The study had a cross-sectional, multicenter design, using a self-developed questionnaire. The questionnaire was developed utilizing recommendations from the Delphi technique, including an expert group and piloting. A purposive sampling strategy was used, including head doctors from Norwegian EPHCCs (n = 169). Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences, and included descriptive statistics, Chi-Square tests and Shapiro-Wilks. Free-text answers were analyzed by content analysis. RESULTS: A total of 64 head doctors responded to the questionnaire. The results show that 25% of the head doctors had experienced mass influx of patients at their EPHCC. In total 54.7% of Norwegian EPHCCs did not have disaster plans that consider mass influx situations. The majority of EPHCCs plan to recall staff one by one (60.3%) or through Short-Message-Systems (34.4%). Most EPHCCs had available telephone "alarm" lists (81.4%), that are updated regularly (60.9%). However, only 17.2% had plans that consider loss of mobile phone connection or internet. In total, 67,2% of the head doctors reported to have little experience with automatized staff recall systems, and 59,7% reported to have little knowledge about such systems. There were no significant difference between small and large EPHCCs in having plans or not. CONCLUSION: Even though our results show that few EPHCCs experience mass influx of patients, it is important to be prepared when such incidents do occur. Our results indicate that it is still potential for improvement regarding plans for staff recall and implementation of staff recall systems at Norwegian EPHCCs. Involving national disaster medicine experts in the process of generating tools or checklists could aid when constructing disaster plans. Education and implementation of training for mass influx situations at all levels should always be highlighted.

Nursing students' attitudes towards the use of digital technology in the healthcare of older adults- a cross-sectional study in Norway and Sweden.

BACKGROUND: Implementation of digital technology has been suggested as a potential solution to future healthcare challenges. Healthcare personnel's attitudes are important in the acceptance and implementation of digital technologies. AIM: The aims of this study were to (1) translate and validate two different questionnaires to Norwegian and Swedish respectively, and then (2) use these to examine nursing students' attitudes towards digital technology in healthcare, as well as their attitudes towards older adults' abilities to use digital technology. DESIGN: Cross-sectional. METHODS: A web-based questionnaire was distributed in first year nursing students in a Norwegian and a Swedish university college, respectively. The questionnaire consisted of the short form of the 'Information Technology Attitude Scales for Health (ITASH)' and the 'Attitudes Towards Older Adults Using Digital technology (ATOAUT-11)' questionnaire. The questionnaires were translated and validated in both countries. Frequencies, Student's t-test, and one-way ANOVA were used to analyze the data. RESULTS: In total 236 students responded to the questionnaire in the period September 2022 to April 2023. Students mainly reported positive attitudes towards digital technology use in general. They most agreed with the items 'Using digital technology devices makes my communication with other health professionals faster', 'The sort of information I can get from the digital technology devices helps me give better care to patient', and 'Digital technology skills are becoming more and more necessary for healthcare professionals'. However, they reported more negative attitudes towards older adults using digital technology. They most agreed with the items 'One needs a lot of patience to explain to an older adult how to use digital technologies', 'It's hard to explain to older adults how to use digital technology', 'Using digital technology is harder for most older adults', and 'Most older adults fear using digital technology because they fear of being scammed or cheated'. CONCLUSION: The ITASH and the ATOAUT-11 is appropriate for use in a Norwegian and Swedish setting. Even if nursing students are positive to digital technology in healthcare in general, they are sceptical to older adults using digital technology. This may impact on their attitudes to using digital technology in the healthcare of older adults. These aspects need emphasis when revising nursing education curricula focusing on developing technological competencies in nursing, and gaining knowledge regarding older adults' use of digital technology.

Finding good alternatives to hospitalisation: a data register study in five municipal acute wards in Norway.

BACKGROUND: In Norway, municipal acute wards (MAWs) have been implemented in primary healthcare since 2012. The MAWs were intended to offer decentralised acute medical care 24/7 for patients who otherwise would be admitted to hospital. The aim of this study was to assess whether the MAW represents the alternative to hospitalisation as intended, through 1) describing the characteristics of patients intended as candidates for MAWs by primary care physicians, 2) exploring the need for extended diagnostics prior to admission in MAWs, and 3) exploring factors associated with patients being transferred from the MAWs to hospital. METHODS: The study was based on register data from five MAWs in Norway in the period 2014-2020. RESULTS: In total, 16 786 admissions were included. The median age of the patients was 78 years, 60% were women, and the median length of stay was three days. Receiving oral medication (OR 1.23, 95% CI 1.09-1.40), and the MAW being located nearby the hospital (OR 2.29, 95% CI 1.92-2.72) were factors associated with patients admitted to MAW after extended diagnostics. Patients needing advanced treatment, such as oxygen therapy (OR 2.13, 95% CI 1.81-2.51), intravenous medication (OR 1.60, 95% CI 1.45-1.81), intravenous fluid therapy (OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.19-1.47) and MAWs with long travel distance from the MAW to the hospital (OR 1.46, 95% CI 1.22-1.74) had an increased odds for being transferred to hospital. CONCLUSIONS: Our findings indicate that MAWs do not represent the alternative to hospitalisation as intended. The results show that patients receiving extended diagnostics before admission to MAW got basic treatment, while patients in need of advanced medical treatment were transferred to hospital from a MAW. This indicates that there is still a potential to develop MAWs in order to fulfil the intended health service level.

Hospital physicians' experiences and reflections on their work and role in relation to older patients' pathways - a qualitative study in two Norwegian hospitals.

BACKGROUND: Older patients are the most frequent users of initial hospital admissions and readmissions. Both hospital admission and discharge require communication and coordination between healthcare professionals within the hospital, and between professionals in hospitals and primary healthcare. We have identified few studies exploring hospital physicians' perspectives on older patients' pathways in the interface between hospital and primary healthcare services. The aim of this study was to explore hospital physicians' experiences and reflections on their work and role in relation to older patients' pathways between hospital and primary healthcare. Specifically, we focused on the challenges they faced and how they dealt with these in relation to admission and discharge, and their suggestions for service improvements that could facilitate older patients' pathway. METHODS: We used a qualitative approach, conducting individual in-depth interviews with 18 hospital physicians from two hospitals in eastern Norway. Data were analyzed using systematic text condensation, in line with a four-step prosedure developed by Malterud. RESULTS: The participants emphasized challenges in the communication about patients across the two service levels. Moreover, they described being in a squeeze between prioritizing patients and trying to ensure a proper flow of patients through the hospital wards, but with restricted possibilities to influence on the admissions. They also described a frustration regarding the lack of influence on the healthcare delivery after discharge. The participants had various suggestions for service improvements which might be beneficial to older patients. CONCLUSIONS: The results demonstrate that the hospital physicians perceived being squeezed between professional autonomy and limited capacity at the hospital, and between their medical judgement as a specialist and their power to decide on hospital admissions for old patients and also on the delivery of health care services to patients after discharge.

The aftermath of surviving a sudden cardiac arrest for young exercisers - a qualitative study in Norway.

BACKGROUND: When surviving a sudden cardiac arrest (SCA), physical, cognitive, and emotional effects of surviving may be present for months or years. The survivors' family and colleagues are also highly affected by the incident. There is little knowledge about experiences of surviving SCA in individuals who prior to the incident were young and reported to exercise regularly. Consequently, the aim of this study was to explore the aftermath of surviving a SCA in young, regular exercisers. METHODS: The study had a qualitative design, conducting in-depth individual interviews with SCA survivors < 50 years of age reporting to exercise ≥ 5 h/week and/or who suffered SCA during or less than 60 min after exercise. The data were analysed using systematic text condensation in-line with recommendations from Malterud. RESULTS: 18 of 31 eligible participants were included in the study. Through analysis we identified 'Establishing a new everyday life' as superordinate category, with subordinate categories a) being part of my surroundings, b) expecting normality but facing a new reality and c) lucky to be alive! CONCLUSION: This study adds knowledge about young and regular exercisers' experiences after surviving a SCA. The obligations of everyday life in young survivors of SCA often imply a high work load and complex tasks, e.g. due to being in the beginning of their career or even still studying. Healthcare personnel, as well as the society, need to acknowledge that although lucky to be alive and apparently well-functioning, young survivors of SCA may have persistent challenges that cause frustration and reduced quality of life.

Cancer patients' perspectives on remote monitoring at home during the COVID-19 pandemic- a qualitative study in Norway.

BACKGROUND: The COVID-19 pandemic triggered an unprecedented demand for digital health technology solutions, such as remote monitoring. Previous research has focused on patients with chronic diseases, and their experiences with remote monitoring during the pandemic. Several recommendations have been presented to reduce the frequency of cancer patients' visits to oncology centers and minimizing the risk of exposure to COVID-19, such as remote monitoring. However, few studies have explored how this has influenced the healthcare services to cancer patients. AIM: To explore cancer patients' perspectives on remote monitoring at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. DESIGN: The study had a qualitative design, using in-depth, individual interviews. METHODS: A total of eleven interviews were conducted with patients who received remote monitoring during the COVID-19 outbreak. Three of the interviews were conducted by telephone, and eight on a digital platform, audio recorded, and transcribed verbatime. Data were analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis as recommended by Braun & Clarke. RESULTS: All participants were conscious about being vulnerable to infections due to having cancer and receiving cancer treatment, and the pandemic to them represented an extra burden. Most of the participants experienced that their healthcare services had changed due to the pandemic, but there was no consensus on how the services had changed. All of the participants presented remote monitoring as something «new¼. Whether they received remote monitoring by telephone, video consultations or more advanced solutions with the possibility to complete a questionnaire or fill in measurements, did not seem to impact their views. However, all agreed that remote monitoring could never totally replace physical consultations in hospital. Participants' views seemed to grow more positive over time, but still they emphasized both positive and negative aspects of remote monitoring solutions in cancer care. CONCLUSION: Remote monitoring was introduced as a necessity in cancer care during the COVID-19 outbreak. This may seem as an efficient solution, allowing for patients to stay at home and avoid infection. Our results indicate that, in the case of cancer patients, it is important that healthcare personnel balance the remote monitoring solution with person-to-person contact.

Remote monitoring of cancer patients during the Covid-19 pandemic - an interview study of nurses' and physicians' experiences.

BACKGROUND: Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, remote monitoring of patients outside hospitals rapidly increased. Previous studies show that healthcare professionals' competence in digitalization needs to be improved. Little is known about how Covid-19 has affected the use of remote monitoring of cancer patients. The purpose of the study was therefore to explore healthcare personnels' experiences with remote monitoring of cancer patients during the Covid-19 pandemic.  METHODS: The study had an explorative and descriptive design using semi-structured individual interviews for data collection. Data was analyzed by content analysis. RESULTS: A total of ten healthcare personnel working in the cancer department and out-patient cancer clinic in the hospital participated; four physicians and six registered nurses. Two categories and four subcategories were identified: 1) «Maintaining personalized healthcare services¼ comprising the subcategories a) «Adjusting services to patients' health condition¼ and b) «Ensuring continuity¼; and 2) «A supplement, but not a replacement¼ comprising the subcategories a) «Impact on interpersonal relations¼ and b) «The importance of clinical assessment¼. CONCLUSIONS: This study indicates that remote monitoring through telephone was preferred by both healthcare personnel and patients. The nurses and physicians experienced a more frequent contact with their patients, but emphasized the importance of physical meetings for building relationship, and for thorough clinical examination. Our findings indicate a need to facilitate a work environment where healthcare personnel can be fast learners in using digital tools to provide best possible healthcare quality. Moreover, it is imperative to develop a workplace suitable for the use of digital technology for remote monitoring, and to provide digital tools that is easy to use for both healthcare personnel and patients.

Anaesthesia personnels' perspectives on digital anaesthesia information management systems - a qualitative study.

BACKGROUND: In Norway, the anaesthesia team normally consists of a nurse anaesthetist and an anaesthetist. Digital anesthesia information management systems (AIMS) that collect patient information directly from the anaesthesia workstation, and transmit the data into documentation systems have recently been implemented in Norway. Earlier studies have indicated that implementation of digital AIMS impacts the clinical workflow patterns and distracts the anaesthesia providers. These studies have mainly had a quantitative design and focused on functionality, installation designs, benefits and challenges associated with implementing and using AIMS. Hence, the aim of this study was to qualitatively explore anaesthesia personnel's perspectives on implementing and using digital AIMS. METHODS: The study had an exploratory and descriptive design. The study was conducted within three non-university hospitals in Southern Norway. Qualitative, individual interviews with nurse anaesthetists (n = 9) and anaesthetists (n = 9) were conducted in the period September to December 2020. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis according to the recommendations of Graneheim and Lundman. RESULTS: Four categories were identified: 1) Balance between clinical assessment and monitoring, 2) Vigilance in relation to the patient, 3) The nurse-physician collaboration, and 4) Software issues. Participants described that anaesthesia included a continuous balance between clinical assessment and monitoring. They experienced that the digital AIMS had an impact on their vigilance in relation to the patient during anaesthesia. The digital AIMS affected the nurse-physician collaboration. Moreover, participants emphasised a lack of user participation and aspects of user-friendliness regarding the implementation of digital AIMS. CONCLUSION: Digital AIMS impacts vigilance in relation to the patient. Hence, collaboration and acceptance of the mutual responsibility between nurse anaesthetists and anaesthetists for both clinical observation and digital AIMS administration is essential. Anaesthesia personnel should be included in development and implementation processes to facilitate implementation.

Nursing perspectives and strategies in patients with respiratory insufficiency.

BACKGROUND: Approximately 30% of patients admitted to an intensive care unit experience respiratory distress. The COVID-19 pandemic has led to an enormous increase in patients with respiratory symptoms. Nurse competence is essential for ensuring quality treatment and care for these patients; however, research on nursing strategies for patients with respiratory insufficiency is limited. AIM: This study explored nurses' perspectives on and nursing strategies in patients with respiratory insufficiency when admitted to three different intensive care units. DESIGN: The study had an exploratory, descriptive, qualitative design. METHODS: Four focus group interviews with a total of 20 nurses, critical care nurses, and critical care nursing students were conducted. Data were analysed using content analysis. RESULTS: Participants' perspectives fell into two main themes: "nurse competence" and "the art of balancing." "Nurse competence" incorporated the sub-themes "observations and assessments," "to make decisions," and "collaboration." The theme 'the art of balancing' incorporated the sub-themes "nursing interventions," "patients feeling safe," and "patient participation." CONCLUSION: This study contributes new knowledge about nurses' perspectives on patients with respiratory insufficiency. Nurse competence was assumed essential to observe, assess, and treat patients with respiratory insufficiency. Nursing strategies included balancing nursing interventions, conducting medical treatment, and taking a whole-person approach to patients' needs. RELEVANCE TO CLINICAL PRACTICE: The COVID-19 pandemic has shown the need for nurse competence in caring for patients with respiratory insufficiency. This study adds to existing literature emphasizing the need for competence in health care services. Caring for patients with respiratory insufficiency requires nurses with experience; competence in observation, assessment, and medical treatment; and a whole-person approach to patients' needs.

What if something happens tonight? A qualitative study of primary care physicians' perspectives on an alternative to hospital admittance.

BACKGROUND: Due to demographic changes, hospital emergency departments in many countries are overcrowded. Internationally, several primary healthcare models have been introduced as alternatives to hospitalisation. In Norway, municipal acute wards (MAWs) have been implemented as primary care wards that provide observation and medical treatment for 24 h. The intention is to replace hospitalisation for patients who require acute admission but not specialist healthcare services. The aim of this study was to explore primary care physicians' (PCPs') perspectives on admission to a MAW as an alternative to hospitalisation. METHODS: The study had a qualitative design, including interviews with 21 PCPs in a county in southeastern Norway. Data were analysed with a thematic approach. RESULTS: The PCPs described uncertainty when referring patients to the MAW because of the fewer diagnostic opportunities there than in the hospital. Admission of patients to the MAW was assumed to be unsafe for both PCPs, MAW nurses and physicians. The PCPs assumed that medical competence was lower at the MAW than in the hospital, which led to scepticism about whether their tentative diagnoses would be reconsidered if needed and whether a deterioration of the patients' condition would be detected. When referring patients to a MAW, the PCPs experienced disagreements with MAW personnel about the suitability of the patient. The PCPs emphasised the importance of patients' and relatives' participation in decisions about the level of treatment. Nevertheless, such participation was not always possible, especially when patients' wishes conflicted with what PCPs considered professionally sound. CONCLUSIONS: The PCPs reported concerns regarding the use of MAWs as an alternative to hospitalisation. These concerns were related to fewer diagnostic opportunities, lower medical expertise throughout the day, uncertainty about the selection of patients and challenges with user participation. Consequently, these concerns had an impact on how the PCPs utilised MAW services.